Every chapter of my journey has led to the next. A Chicago-based vocalist, percussionist, educator, and bandleader, Gina has built a career exploring the many voices of American music—from the energy of rock and the storytelling of Americana to the elegance of early jazz, western swing, blues, and classic country. Today, she is recognized for performances that combine historical authenticity, rhythmic artistry, and an unmistakable joy for connecting with audiences. Music first shaped Gina through percussion. After earning her degree in Music Education from VanderCook College of Music, she spent years teaching, adjudicating, and coaching competitive marching percussion ensembles throughout the Midwest while simultaneously pursuing a career as a rock vocalist and touring nationally with original music. When a vocal injury threatened to end her career as a frontwoman, everything changed. Following a successful vocal procedure, she discovered a newfound clarity, range, and freedom in her voice. That unexpected second chapter led her into the world of early American jazz and roots music, where she found not only a new sound but a lifelong artistic calling. Since then, Gina has toured throughout Europe and South America, performed for international audiences and diplomatic events, and appeared with acclaimed musicians and ensembles dedicated to preserving America's musical heritage. Whether performing intimate jazz standards, western swing dance tunes, Americana originals, or roots-inspired arrangements, she brings the perspective of both a vocalist and a percussionist—balancing rhythmic precision with expressive storytelling. As an educator, Gina is equally passionate about inspiring the next generation of musicians. She continues to teach, adjudicate, and present clinics throughout the Midwest, believing that music is most meaningful when it connects history, community, and people across generations. Whether on the concert stage, in a classroom, or at a festival, Gina's mission is the same: to honor the music that shaped America while inviting today's audiences to experience it with fresh ears, open hearts, and a sense of joyful discovery.Her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics resonate with listeners, weaving stories of love, resilience, and self-discovery. Gina graduated with a degree in music education from VanderCook College of Music. After first traveling the Midwest coaching competitive marching percussion groups, she turned her attention to original pop music and toured the nation performing dramatic original rock. Vocal injury threatened to end life as a front woman. However, a successful vocal procedure revealed range clarity and control that jumpstarted her immersion into the world of early jazz vocal. Gina quickly connected with early jazz musicians worldwide, touring Europe and South America as a specialist in early American jazz and roots vocals. As a bandleader and collaborator, Gina brings a unique blend of historical knowledge and genre-crossing creativity to every project.  Her arrangements—vocally and rhythmically—bridge tradition with originality, earning her recognition among both purists and new audiences In addition to her performance work, Gina is an active educator and adjudicator teaching adolescent through college age bands and musical groups. A skilled mallet percussionist and drumline technician, she leads clinics and judges competitions throughout the Midwest, with a passion for mentorship and rhythmic innovation. Whether she’s singing a swing-era standard, leading a honky-tonk two-step, or layering percussion in a modern roots ensemble, Gina brings timeless style, depth, and joyful energy to every stage she steps on.